August 9, 2024 - (Toronto, ON) In 2022, Lanrick Bennett Jr., the Managing Director at 8 80 Cities, was announced as Toronto’s first Bicycle Mayor. The initiative to establish a worldwide Bicycle Mayor program was launched back in June 2016 by BYCS, an Amsterdam-based global NGO that is guided by the belief that bicycles transform cities and cities transform the world. Bennett’s experience at 8 80 Cities with advocacy, active transportation and social programs was an immediate launch pad for his new role at growing, cultivating and safeguarding cycling in Canada’s biggest city.

He quickly gained a following and took on issues of safety, bike lanes, police harassment, equity, inclusion and more, and worked with advocacy groups such as Cycle Toronto, Friends and Families for Safe Streets, Charlie’s Freewheels, The Biking Lawyer, the Bike Brigade, along with city councillors, MPs and media outlets, including stints with Kidical Mass that celebrates the joy of children biking. Bicycle Mayors sit for two years before passing the torch, and this September, Bennett will pass the reins to a new cycling advocate to lead the charge. We caught up him for his thoughts on his hectic and engaging tenure as Toronto’s first Bicycle Mayor.

Please give us a brief history of your background in cycling…?
Lanrick Bennett Jr.: Honestly it isn’t that deep. I grew up riding a bike until I got my licence when I was 16. Growing up in a city like Mississauga, with very little public transit at the time, moving by car was really the only way you could comfortably get from point “a” to point “b”. I’ve only been riding as an adult for the last 6-7 years because my daughter wanted to ride to school when she was nine years old.

What was your motivation to become Toronto’s first Bicycle Mayor back in 2022?
LBJ: My daughter gave up riding her bike after the death of Douglas Crosbie at Dundas St. E. and Jones Ave., which is about half way to her school. She wrote to numerous elected officials including our Municipal representative. Even at 9 she could smell the “BS” and gave up riding soon after. Honestly, I hoped I could make changes to show her that it could be a safer sphere for her to take up riding again.

There have been ups and downs for cycling in Toronto, how has the conversation changed over the last two years?
LBJ: In the past two years, the conversation around cycling in Toronto has become more focused on equity and inclusivity. There’s a growing acknowledgement of the need for protected bike lanes and safe infrastructure, particularly in under-served communities. We’ve seen increased community engagement and collaboration with local organizations to address these issues. While there have been setbacks, there’s a stronger and more widespread commitment to making cycling a central part of Toronto’s transportation strategy.

Are politicians generally more open and motivated to bring the changes needed for more cycling in the city?
LBJ: There has been a noticeable shift in political support for cycling infrastructure. More politicians are recognizing the benefits of cycling for public health, environmental sustainability, and urban mobility. However, the level of commitment can vary, and continuous advocacy is essential to keep cycling issues at the forefront of political agendas. I live in a progressive section of the city, Toronto-Danforth, however we don’t have an elected municipal representative that will go out of their way to push beyond car dependency. Building strong coalitions and demonstrating widespread community support are crucial for maintaining and increasing this momentum.

Safety remains a key issue for cycling everywhere around the globe… talk about the issues facing Toronto?
LBJ: In Toronto, safety concerns for cyclists include the lack of protected bike lanes, the presence of cars parked in bike lanes, and general road maintenance issues. People that ride bikes often feel vulnerable due to close interactions with motor vehicles, especially in high-traffic areas. Addressing these safety concerns requires dedicated investment in infrastructure that prioritizes cyclists’ safety, such as more protected bike lanes, better signage, and regular maintenance.

Bike lanes remain a hot topic and while progress is being made challenges remain… your comments?
LBJ:  Progress in expanding bike lanes in Toronto has been encouraging, but it has not been without challenges. Resistance from some elected municipal representatives who have slowed down implementation can hinder the development of necessary infrastructure. It’s crucial to continue educating the public on the benefits of bike lanes and to advocate for their importance in creating a sustainable and healthy urban environment. Persistent efforts are needed to overcome these challenges and ensure that bike lanes become a permanent and effective part of our city’s transportation network.

How has the popularity of e-bikes changed things for cycling in Toronto?
LBJ: E-bikes have significantly expanded the appeal of cycling, making it more accessible to a broader range of people, including those with physical limitations or longer commutes. They offer a practical alternative to cars for many trips, helping to reduce traffic congestion and emissions.

What’s your take on more businesses using e-cargo bikes for deliveries which is catching on with bigger players like FedEx, Purolator, UPS etc.?
LBJ: The adoption of e-cargo bikes by major businesses is a positive step towards sustainability. E-cargo bikes are well-suited for urban deliveries, helping to reduce traffic congestion and emissions. Fedex Canada just celebrated their 4-year anniversary of utilizing e-cargo bikes. This trend supports the broader goal of promoting cycling as a mainstream mode of transportation and demonstrates a commitment to environmentally friendly business practices. It’s an encouraging development that I hope will continue to grow.

What are you most proud of achieving during your tenure as Bicycle Mayor of Toronto?
LBJ: I’m most proud of the increased visibility and inclusion of diverse voices in the cycling community. Through collaborations with local organizations and advocacy efforts, we’ve made significant strides in addressing the unique challenges faced by under-represented groups. Seeing more people from diverse backgrounds take up cycling and feel safe on our streets has been incredibly rewarding. Additionally, the strengthened coalition of advocates working towards common goals is a testament to our collective efforts. I’m excited for the next person, or persons, that take over the Bicycle Mayor role here this September.

What’s next for you going forward as you hand the reins to a new mayor this fall…?
LBJ: I’ll continue my research at UofT as the Urbanist-In-Residence at the School of Cities. I can’t see myself leaving the cycling advocacy role. I’m sure that you’ll still hear from me in one way or another.

Thanks for making time and all the best.
LBJ: Thanks as well.

For more on the Bicycle Mayor of Toronto click here.
For more information on the Bicycle Mayor global program click here.